This summer in New Orleans, we can expect to have about 20 days out of each month that average at or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit (don't forget to average in our humidity). In other words: it's hot. Like, real hot. And if we are being frank, the only true way one can completely cool off in such atrocious heat is by completely submerging themselves in water. We don't really have oceans to dive into or anything, but we do have accessible pools and places to cool off around the city.
1. Cool Zoo
Though it's not a pool, head down to Audubon Zoo where the kiddies can run around and cool off. The Cool Zoo can best be described as a mini, animal-themed water park. It includes a 750-foot lazy river ride, water-spitting snakes, spider monkey soakers, lion-head water cannons, and a giant alligator slide that dumps 400 gallons of water!
6500 Magazine St., (504) 581-4629, audubonnatureinstitute.org
2. The Country Club
Located in the Bywater, The Country Club is known for its beautifully landscaped pool. Also featured is a historic cottage where yummy cocktails are mixed and served as well as a cabana bar. The pool hours are from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Happy Hour is from 4 to 7 p.m. And if it's raining, a bright side is that they will then run Happy Hour all day! Pool access is $10 Monday thru Wednesday and $15 Thursday thru Sunday.
634 Louisa St., (504) 945-0742, thecountryclubneworleans.com
3. The W New Orleans—French Quarter
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, one can enjoy a relaxing time by the W Hotel's courtyard pool for $30. This price also goes towards food and beverages. The W occasionally hosts monthly "Dive-In" movie showings with complimentary popcorn.
316 Chartres St., (504) 581-1200, wfrenchquarter.com
4. The Roosevelt Hotel
Enjoy a day at the Roosevelt's rooftop pool that is open year round. Take in the rays with the beautiful Waldorf Astoria garden as a background. You can enjoy signature cocktails and frozen concoctions or grab a little something to eat at their bar that is open seasonally (opens each March). While you're there, you can even rent a lush cabana that can fit up to six people.
130 Roosevelt Way, (504) 648-1200, therooseveltneworleans.com
5. Le Méridien Hotel
Le Méridien New Orleans recently spruced up its rooftop deck and its pool is open to those 21 and older on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. At the Le Meridien, you can also rent a cozy cabana equipped with a TV, couch, and lounge chair. Sit back and relax at this rooftop pool in a tranquil, lush environment.
333 Poydras St., (504) 525-9444, lemeridienneworleanshotel.com
6. The Drifter Hotel
In more of a "pool party" type of mood? Head down to The Drifter Hotel in Mid-City. It's just a quick stroll through the modern and hip, decorated lounge to the backyard, where you'll find their saltwater pool decorated with lounge chairs and potted plants. DJs are usually on the scene on weekends to add to the fun. When the weather takes a turn and it rains, drink specials include house wines and beer-and-shot specials for $5.
3522 Tulane Ave., (504) 605-4644, thedrifterhotel.com
7. Alto Rooftop Bar & Pool
Alto is located on the rooftop of Ace Hotel on Carondelet Street. It is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. At this rooftop garden, you can enjoy the pool as well as order tasty small plates to snack on and delicious cocktails. Non-hotel guests must spend at least $20 on food or beverages.
600 Carondelet St., (504) 900-1180, acehotel.com/neworleans/alto
